Machination (noun)

1. A cunning or deceitful plan or scheme, especially one used to achieve a sinister or unethical end.
2. A crafty or devious plot or design.

Origin:

The word 'machination' comes from the latin word 'machinari' meaning 'to contrive or devise'.

Examples:

1. The villain's machination was foiled by the detective's clever investigation.
2. The political machination behind the secret meetings was suspected to involve a power grab.
3. The CEO's machination to take over the company was revealed in the leaked emails.
4. The villain's machination was exposed, revealing a sinister plot to destroy the city.
5. The machination of the spy was discovered, leading to their arrest and imprisonment.